June 17

The end of all things is at hand; be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.—1 Peter 4:7.

DO I bear in mind how fast life is passing away, and what momentous issues are dependent on it? And do I cherish, habitually, that serious frame of mind and heart which becomes one who, at any moment, may be called to eternity? While I pray, do I watch; and while I watch, do I pray? And through both watchfulness and prayer, is it my earnest endeavor ever to be found faithful in duty and prepared for the coming of the Son of man?

Prayer, without watching, is hypocrisy; and watching, without prayer, is presumption.

Pressing emergencies are to be met with corresponding efforts. We must proportion our strength and exertion to the tasks and duties and dangers before us, doing with our might what we can do, and praying with our might that God may do for us. If we do all that we can to stand, and then fear lest we may fall, by the grace of God we are safe.

Watch! 'tis your Lord's command;

And while we speak, he's near:

Mark the first signal of his hand,

And ready all appear.

Oh happy servant he,

In such a posture found:

He shall his Lord with rapture see,

And be with honor crowned!—DODDRIDGE.